Hearty, comforting, easy and homemade: we’ve perfected a stew that’s all of these things. All you have to do is marinate stewing meat, add lots of aromatic flavourings and simmer slowly in beef broth, so it turns out forktender and delicious. Let Tracy Sherva of the Kraft Kitchens take you through the steps to achieving the perfect winter stew.

Ingredients

3/4 cup Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing
2 lb. (1 kg) stewing beef, cut into 1-inch chunks
6 slices bacon, chopped
3 cups sliced mushrooms
1 cup chopped onions (about 1 large)
3 cups sliced carrots (about 6 medium)
1-1/2 lb. (750 g) potatoes, peeled, cut into large chunks (about 4 cups)
1 can (19 fl oz/540 mL) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 fl oz/284 mL) beef broth

Just Follow Our Simple Steps

1. Trim excess fat from meat and cut into even 1-inch chunks using a sharp knife.

2. Place dressing and beef in large resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate 30 min. to marinate.

3. Cook bacon in large pot on medium heat 5 min. or until crisp. Remove bacon from pot using slotted spoon.

4. Drain excess bacon fat carefully into a tin can, rather than pouring down sink. (Note: bacon fat will be extremely hot.) Place can in refrigerator until fat has solidified before discarding.

5. Add onion and mushrooms to pot; cook on medium-high heat 10 min. or until softened. Remove beef from marinade; discard marinade. Add beef, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes with their liquid, broth and bacon to pot.

6. Bring to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour 15 min. Uncover; continue to simmer 15 min. or until meat is tender and sauce is thickened, stirring occasionally.

Makes 8 servings.